Modular Incubator Microscope for Sterile Live Cell Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope systems for live cell imaging often require cells to be removed from incubators, risking contamination and failing to maintain physiological conditions, and existing combined systems are expensive, difficult to maintain, and limited in capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular, multi-functional microscope surveillance system that allows for imaging within incubators, featuring interchangeable modules with camera motion control, configurable optical elements, climate protection, and user interfaces for remote operation, enabling flexible and sterile imaging of cell cultures in controlled environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cells are removed from incubator to separate imaging system, then imaging capability is achieved, but contamination risk increases and physiological conditions are not maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging system with the incubator by integrating a microscope and camera system directly into the incubator chamber. This allows cells to be imaged in situ without removal, eliminating contamination risk while maintaining physiological conditions. The integrated system combines incubation functions (temperature, humidity control) with imaging capabilities in a single unified platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The incubator is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides environmental control for cell culture while simultaneously functioning as an imaging system. The integrated microscope and camera enable live-cell imaging within the incubator, making the system universal for both incubation and imaging operations without requiring separate equipment.
2Reliability
If combined imaging system with incubator is used, then imaging within controlled environment is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into modular components that can be independently integrated into the incubator. The microscope, camera, and imaging modules are designed as separate units that can be added to or removed from the incubator system, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the ability to perform imaging within controlled environmental conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing combined imaging systems are used, then imaging capability is provided, but maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular imaging components and incubation components that can be independently maintained. Imaging modules can be serviced or replaced without affecting the incubation system, and vice versa. This segmentation simplifies maintenance by allowing targeted repair of specific components without disrupting the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are microscope surveillance systems and methods. In particular, provided herein are modular, multi-functional microscope surveillance systems and methods suitable for use in incubators and other environments.